Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

One of seven Park visitor centers, the Bowles House sits along an empty canal bed in Hancock.
Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures.
Map showing location of park.
Children hold hands as they roller skate around the rink at Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion during the park’s Late Skate program in Washington, D.C., on June 28, 2025.
Celebrate America’s Story in the National Capital Area During National Park Week, August 22-30
The National Park Service is excited to welcome visitors to celebrate National Park Week from Saturday, August 22 through Sunday, August 30, as dozens of sites across the region mark the 2026 theme, “Celebrate America’s Story,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence and recognizing our shared American heritage of national parks.
A gravel travel next to a watered canal surrounded by bright greenery
Photo by NPS
A bright blue sky reflects off clear water
Photo by NPS
A path leads up to a large stone tunnel carved into a mountain
Photo by NPS
A single bike rider on the towpath next to the widewater section of the canal.
Photo by NPS photo
Fog over the Potomac River alongside the Canal towpath.
Photo by NPS photo
A whitewashed lockhouse sits above a stone lock with wooden crib.
Photo by NPS photo
The rushing river cascades over the rocks of the Potomac
Photo by NPS photo